A Coventry pub has raised funds for its own HeartStart machine after the tragic loss of two of its most loyal customers.

A Coventry pub has raised funds for its own HeartStart machine after the tragic loss of two of its most loyal customers.

The defibrillator, bought by the Cocked Hat pub, helps with mouth-to-mouth and other forms of resuscitation as well as applying an electric current to the chest.

The #2,000 needed for the machine was raised by raffles, sponsored walks, and a swear box.

John Ashby, a drummer in a jazz band who often played in the pub and regular Bob Evans both died from heart troubles. John was in the pub at the time he collapsed.

Alma Goadsby, landlady, said: "My colleagues and I have all been trained to use the machine and it can't harm anyone in the process. Just by having one on site we hope it can help others."

Workers at the pub - on the A46 eastern by-pass at Binley - received training and a certificate from John Hillier, paramedic and Paul Eagleton, clinical supervisor from West Midlands Ambulance Service.

She added: "They all feel confident working the defibrillator and have thankfully not needed to use it yet."

"Everyone's view is that if it's only used once to help save a life then it's worth it."

Mr Hillier said: "I think it's a wonderful thing Alma has done, taking the time to raise the money and get training. They are a great help because if someone is in cardiac arrest, the quicker a shock can be given to the patient's chest, the better the chance of survival."